Memphis Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke dies at 29

MEMPHIS, TN - SEPTEMBER 23: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Memphis Grizzlies poses for a portrait during the City Edition jersey shoot on September 23, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

NBAE via Getty Images

Brandon Clarke, the 29-year-old forward who played the past seven seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, has died, his agency, Priority Sports, announced.

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— Priority Sports (@PrioritySports) May 12, 2026

The Memphis Grizzlies confirmed the news and released this statement:

"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten. We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time."

"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in his statement. "As one of the longest-tenured members of the Grizzlies, Brandon was a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon's family, friends and the Grizzlies organization."

No cause of death has been announced.

Clarke played his college ball first at San Jose State and then at Gonzaga, and was drafted No. 21 by the Grizzlies. Clark played all seven of his NBA seasons in Memphis, making the All-Rookie team in 2020 and averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds a game, and was a career 60.5% shooter. He only played in two games this past season, primarily due to a calf injury.